What Are We Reading?

Reviewed by Jasmine Rockwell

At the very least this book by Erin Helmrich and Elizabeth Schneider contains 47 detailed program descriptions in 13 topic-based chapters, but there is much more. The first several chapters lay the foundation of what it means to use today’s pop culture to create programs teens will be interested in and turn your own interests and hobbies into programming opportunities that will appeal to teens. So what does it mean to create, relate, and pop?

Create: using your collections and services learn how to design fun, new, inspirational opportunities for teens

Relate: becoming and staying relevant in teens’ lives so that you can get and keep their attention

Pop: pop culture is the “hook,” what’s current, but doesn’t necessarily mean what’s popular with the majority — with today’s connectivity, niche interests are at your fingertips

The chapter on the history of teen/tween pop culture, starting in the 1950s is fascinating and will awaken your inner-teen. Short subsequent chapters deal with foundational topics such as access and policies, branding, outreach, collections, spaces and programming foundations. All of the theory is then put into practice with over 100 pages of programming and activity ideas laid out in detail. The range of ideas is stunning – from food to art, crafts to contests, technology to physical activities. Check this book out from the State Library today!

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